Steeped in history and studded with gorgeous architecture, Matsumoto is the second-largest city in the Nagano Prefecture. Famed for its beautiful castle, wealth of museums and charming streets lined with boutiques, eateries and traditional ryokans, it is the ideal destination for history fans and keen foodies. Carefully chosen for their location, style and amenities, our collection of the best places to stay in Matsumoto offers chic city pads as well as a restful rural retreat.
The streets of Matsumoto are peaceful and picturesque, with the feel of a quaint town rather than a bustling metropolis. Admire the antique shops of Nawate-Dori, the classic ryokans and gourmet restaurants of Nakamachi-Dori, or take a guided walking tour for a sense of the area’s past. By mid-April, the cherry trees are in full bloom, and the grounds of Matsumoto Castle are at their most enchanting. Complete with turrets, a keep and a tower, this is one of Japan’s most beautiful castles — and one of very few positioned on flat land. Staff in traditional warrior dress lead informative tours, and the Castle’s museum teems with ancient artefacts, armour and weaponry. Other highlights include the Jorinji Shrine, the Ukiyoe Museum and the Museum of Art.
Venture beyond the city to discover a 15-hectare wasabi farm — the largest in Japan — or to enjoy tours and tastings at excellent wineries. The Yatsugatake National Park, where one of the best places to stay in Matsumoto is located, is brilliant for hiking and bird-spotting.
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Matsumoto (Nagano)
A sleek hotel located in the heart of the city. Simply dressed rooms are all white on white with crisp linen and large windows, the best of which have views onto the Japan Alps. A range of restaurants offer everything from Japanese to French cuisines. A chic base to explore the city from.
Matsumoto (Nagano)
This charming hotel in downtown Matsumoto offers traditional Japanese-style rooms or, in the annexe, a retro feel with historical folk craft furniture, wooden beams and stucco walls. There's a restaurant and a cafe, plus guests can relax in the communal bath. A wonderful nostalgic step back in time.
Matsumoto (Nagano)
A boutique property offering contemporary Japanese style. Smart rooms are minimalist in design with enormous windows, sink-into western beds, low level dining tables and the best have hot spring baths. The restaurant serves up superlative regional dishes. A chic city base.
Matsumoto
Ideally located in the heart of town, nestled in the shadow of Matsumoto castle. A clever blend of old and new buildings feature rooms and suites with luxurious furnishings and neutral, earthy colours. Various dining options including Western fusion menus. A stylish city base.
Matsumoto (Nagano)
An onsen hotel situated in the hills high above Matsumoto city. Tastefully decorated rooms in warm wood and burnt orange have floor-to-ceiling windows framing stunning views. There are several hot spring baths, plus a restaurant serving traditional multi-course meals. A picturesque relaxing stay.
Matsumoto (Nagano)
A tranquil resort nestled in the outskirts of Matsumoto. Sleek, modern rooms with elegant traditional furnishings including latticed shoji sliding doors. Eight types of bath fed by the Asama hot spring, daily musical recitals and superb kaiseki cuisine complete the picture. Fabulous!
Matsumoto
A charming hotel in the foothills of the alps close to River Azusa. Rooms offer traditional Japanese décor with woven tatami flooring, futons and soft colourings; some have private outdoor onsens. Leafy gardens, indoor/outdoor hot-spring baths and tranquil surroundings make this the perfect escape.
Matsumoto (Nagano)
Situated 20 minutes outside the city centre, Matsumoto Jujo consists of two hotels, a bookstore, a bakery, a shop, a restaurant, and a cider brewery. The spacious rooms have an industrial feel with exposed concrete and wood; all have open-air hot spring baths. A perfect blend of comfort and style.
Matsumoto (Matsumoto-shi )
The tranquil Tobira Onsen Myojinkan is located a few miles outside Matsumoto. Choose between Japanese or Western-style rooms and suites, enjoy a range of traditional kaiseki, modern Japanese and French cuisine at the restaurant, or unwind at the spa. A fabulous retreat with beautiful onsens.
